Allison Hill, PharmD, RPh, underscores how pharmacists can sustain vaccination momentum through community partnerships.
In an interview with Pharmacy Times, Allison Hill, PharmD, RPh, director of professional affairs at the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), emphasized the critical role pharmacists play in sustaining vaccination efforts throughout respiratory virus season and beyond. Hill highlighted that pharmacists should continue proactive planning not only from January through March but also in preparation for future seasons by leveraging strong community partnerships.
Drawing from her experience in community pharmacy, Hill encouraged pharmacists and pharmacy teams to collaborate with local organizations—such as churches, senior centers, shelters, and cultural groups—to host vaccination clinics. These partnerships are particularly important for reaching underserved populations or individuals who may feel hesitant or uncomfortable entering a pharmacy setting. Hill noted that many community organizations are eager to work with pharmacists, creating opportunities to extend vaccine access outside traditional care environments.
“We are the most accessible and trusted health care professionals that many patients see on a regular basis.” —Allison Hill, PharmD, RPh
Hill reinforced that pharmacists remain among the most accessible and trusted health care professionals, especially in rural areas where they may be the only consistent point of care for miles. As such, a strong and confident vaccine recommendation from a pharmacist can be a decisive factor for patients and caregivers. She stressed the importance of consistently counseling eligible patients on respiratory vaccines, including influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus, and pneumococcal vaccines when age-appropriate, regardless of the time of year.
The discussion also addressed the growing challenge of vaccine misinformation. Hill urged pharmacists to use routine patient interactions as opportunities to answer questions, dispel disinformation, and provide clinically accurate, evidence-based guidance. By doing so, pharmacists can help patients understand the real-world benefits of vaccination, including preventing hospitalizations, deaths, missed work, and missed school.
Finally, Hill discussed the work of the Pharmacy-Based Vaccine Access Work Group, a coalition of national pharmacy organizations working to unify pharmacy’s voice on vaccines. The group’s guiding principles aim to clarify vaccine recommendations, support advocacy efforts, and ensure continued patient access to vaccines through pharmacies.
